Sleep Apnea Relief: Woman's Decade-Long Battle Ends with Machine
Laure Messirejean, a 40-year-old woman, has found relief from her decade-long battle with sleep apnea, thanks to a prescribed machine. Despite not being overweight, she was diagnosed with the condition, affecting nearly one in ten French people. Her life has significantly improved, with daily headaches now a thing of the past.
Laure's journey began with an appointment for a check-up, leading to a diagnosis of sleep apnea. Dr. Rebecca Le Discorde, a specialist in sleep, highlights that the condition isn't limited to those who are overweight. The hospital's service diagnoses around ten new cases every week.
Dr. Mateo Sanchis-Borja, a pulmonologist, warns against self-diagnosis and treatments, as they can lead to delayed diagnosis and inappropriate treatment. He advises professional diagnosis via sleep studies and medical devices for reliable detection and treatment. Some clinically tested products like custom-fitted mandibular advancement devices can be effective, but self-adjustable or over-the-counter solutions often offer limited relief.
Laure's doctor prescribed a machine, which she uses every night. The cost of these machines can reach up to 5,000 euros, but Laure had no out-of-pocket expenses. Influencers promote sleep apnea machines on social media, but their effectiveness is not scientifically proven. Online tests and products, including anti-snoring sprays and special pillows, also lack proven benefits for sleep apnea specifically. However, certain evidence-based digital health apps for insomnia can be effective for non-apnea sleep problems.
Laure's story underscores the importance of professional diagnosis and treatment for sleep apnea. Despite the prevalence of the condition and online offerings, self-diagnosis and treatments can be misleading. With proper diagnosis and the use of a prescribed machine, Laure has seen significant improvements in her quality of life.
